UAE Weather Latest: All Dubai Schools closed tomorrow and Friday. Rain chaos keeps UAE students remote learning for the week

The Dubai government has announced that Dubai private schools will remain closed and on remote learning for the rest of the week until Friday 19 April:

Government of #Dubai extends remote learning for private schools through Thursday and Friday, April 18 and 19. pic.twitter.com/BfQ47LuVej

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 17, 2024

This has been confirmed by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which regulates Dubai schools. It stated on its social media channels:

“Keeping in mind the safety of students and staff, all Dubai private schools, nurseries, and universities must continue to offer distance learning on April 18 & 19. Stay safe everyone.”

Keeping in mind the safety of students and staff, all Dubai private schools, nurseries, and universities must continue to offer distance learning on April 18 & 19. Stay safe everyone.

— KHDA | هيئة المعرفة والتنمية البشرية بدبي (@KHDA) April 17, 2024

Meanwhile, the Emirates Schools Education Establishment has announced that all UAE public, government-run schools will remain closed and on distance learning for Thursday 18 April. It is not yet confirmed whether UAE public school students will be required to attend in-person school for the half day on Friday.

Emirates School Establishment decided to extend the “remote learning” on Thursday and Friday, April 18 and 19, 2024. #UAE_BARQ_EN pic.twitter.com/20NN0azhjz

— UAE BARQ (@UAE_BARQ_EN) April 17, 2024

Although the adverse UAE weather conditions have now calmed, the largest amount of rainfall seen in the country since records began has wreaked havoc across all seven emirates, and the decisions to remain closed are a precaution in order to ensure that buildings are ready for the safe return of pupils.

 Surpassing anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949, the highest rainfall was recorded in the “Khatm Al Shakla” area in Al Ain, reaching 254 mm in less than 24 hrs.

There has been considerable flooding, with hundreds of cars abandoned on waterlogged roads. Many school buildings have been affected, with schools’ maintenance staff working round the clock to secure the environment in advance of students returning to in-person learning. For example Brighton College Dubai has suffered rain damage to some of its classrooms, which the school says is swiftly being repaired and restored so that students can return safely when schools go back to in-person learning.

Storm damage at Brighton College Dubai

A spokesperson for Brighton College Dubai said:

“Our amazing facilities team has been working tirelessly all day to try and offset, minimise and repair the damage.”

Dubai schools have been quick to relay the information regarding the continued closure to their families, with Dubai International Academy posting just minutes after the official announcement a note of gratitude to parents and students for their co-operation during the extended period of remote learning, stating:

“We sincerely appreciate your ongoing support and cooperation in ensuring continuity of education through our online platforms and material provided by our teachers. Communication will be maintained through our usual channels, and teachers will be available for any questions or assistance your child may need.”

 

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